Do you know you can gain access to more channels on DStv than the ones you normally get without having to pay more? There are lots of hidden free to air channels on every is20 satellite dish installation. Here’s how you can get yours.
Recently on Facebook, I stumbled on an article that opened my eyes to hidden uses of DStv I never knew existed.
That’s how I met Mredjo IDyan. He’s an installations expert from Cape Town who loves helping subscribers with dish and installation issues. He shares a lot of his work on his Facebook group and has contributed a lot to help me make this article for you.
If you are a sports fan, don’t forget to read the article on free to air sports channels.
So let’s get into it. But what do you need for the activation? You’ll need a working remote control, a dstv dish using is20 satellite settings, and a DStv decoder, preferably HD. Decoders such as Explora 4us and 4s.5u.6s.
If you are not using the IS20 satellite, see the setup guide for Eutelsat 36B satellite users.
I’m assuming you have these already so let’s get going.
Related Post: Updated DStv Compact Channels List for 2022/2023.
Here is how to discover and activate lots of FTA channels on your current installation. If you are using an HD decoder, see the FTA channel setup for DStv HD Decoder.
STEP 1
On your Remote Control just go to Menu by pressing the Blue button.
STEP 2
Then select Settings and go to Satellite Settings.
STEP 3
On satellite settings, there is Home Network and Additional Network. Now select Additional network.
STEP 4
On Additional Network, you will find Networks numbered from 1 to 5.
STEP 5
Here’s where you’ll need to pay proper attention. Do not change any frequencies on Network #1. Simply put “YES” where there is “NO.” These are the operating frequencies for your decoder so do not alter them. We’ll start making changes from Network 2 to Network 5.
STEP 6
- Making changes on NETWORK 2 for Commec IS20, KLN, Limpopo TV, 1kzn TV & Others. On Network 2, apply the following changes.
| FREQUENCY | 11514 or 11170 |
| SYMBOL RATE | 28750 |
| FEC | 3/4 |
| POLARISATION | Vertical OR Horizontal |
Then apply Scan this (Scan all✖).
- Making Changes to NETWORK 3 for Ifilm, Loveworld, Press News, Talent Sport, Hossana tv and many more:
| FREQUENCY | 12562 |
| MODULATION | DVB-S2 |
| SYMBOL | 30000 |
| FEC | 5/6 |
| POLARISATION | Horizontal |
Apply Scan this✔ (Scan all✖)
- Make the following changes to NETWORK 4 for Limpopo TV, Christ TV, Angel TV, Mercy TV, prophet Shepard Bushiri, Eagle TV, and more.
| FREQUENCY | 12522 |
| SYMBOL | 27500 Or 30000 |
| FEC | 3/4 |
| POLARISATION | Horizontal |
Apply Scan this✔ (Scan all✖).
- Apply these to NETWORK 5 for Khudunga, Access TV, BTV Test channel, France 24, NOW, BTV Digital, and BTV mobile
| FREQUENCY | 12633 or 12657 for sound |
| SYMBOL RATE | 16166 or 4883 for sound |
| FEC | 5/6 |
| POLARISATION | VERTICAL |
Then Scan this✔ (Scan all✖)
New free channels have been added to Network 2/5. Apply the following setting to get them.
| Enable Network | Yes |
| Use NIT | Yes |
| Frequency | 12543 |
| Modulation | DVB-S |
| Symbol Rate | 1600 |
| FEC | 3/4 |
| Polarisation | Vertical |
Once you are done, be sure to change from “My DStv Channels” to “All Channels” then press 100 and scroll left you will see all the channels that are coming before channel 100. The added channels will have four digits as shown in the image below.
If it won’t scan automatically and it’s showing you that your parameters are incorrect, it means one of two things: either your signal strength is low or your LNB is not properly positioned.
If that’s the case, you’ll need to find an accredited dish installer at your location to assist you. Also, please understand that the frequencies above are the same for is20 free to air frequencies 2022/2023.
Related Article: How to Watch Elif for Free.
List of Free Channels on DStv
Irrespective of the package you are using on DStv, every subscriber is entitled to about 13 free channels on the default setup. A selection of the channels includes:
| S/N | Free Channels | Code |
|---|---|---|
| 1.) | SABC 1 | 191 |
| 2.) | SABC 2 | 192 |
| 3.) | SABC 3 | 193 |
| 4.) | e.TV | 194 |
| 5.) | Soweto TV | 251 |
| 6.) | Bay TV | 260 |
| 7.) | 1 KZN | 261 |
| 8.) | Tshwane TV | 262 |
| 9.) | Cape Town TV | 263 |
| 10.) | GauTV | 265 |
| 11.) | Lesotho TV | 292 |
| 12.) | NTA i | 299 |
| 13.) | TV Mozambique Internacional | 701 |
If you need help, drop a comment below. But if you are in Cape Town, you can always hook up with Mredjo IDyan on Facebook and he’ll help you sort things out.
Please, I would love to be upgraded to the Premium bouquet for free.
Hi. What you you do to get that is to upgrade to Compact Plus, then contact DStv on social media or using the MyDStv app.
Greetings! What if additional network is not coming on satellite settings, what options do I have to proceed to add free to air channels?.
Greetings, Terry! We have a new article on that. Read the solutions to additional networks issue.
Hi, I want free-to-air channels for sabc, and e.tv
Hi, Joseph. You can’t get those channels for free. I recommend you get an Openview decoder.
Do we have Free-to-air action channels or sports?
Yeah, sure. Which satellite are you using?
Hi, please help me. I need free channels, please!
Nana, hi. You’re at the right place. Please scroll up. You’ll find a complete guide on how to set up free channels.
Please are these settings same? Because after following the steps, couldn’t get it scanned, it says parameters are probably not correct and when I try the scan all it says signal strength or quality is poor…
NB: The #100 was working perfectly before I did the settings…
Thanks in advance
It’s not the same, ZED. Go for EU3B settings.
Please I’m using dstv dsd 1132 and it doesn’t have modulation can the fta settings work.
Hi, Obasa. You only have to give it a try. Make changes to available free networks but don’t tamper with the primary Network settings. But what’s your location? You seem to be posting from a different region.
KOKO abadie? So after setting up the free channels, will it alter other channels when I subscribe?
Hahaha. Koko. If you make changes to Network 1, it will alter everything. Don’t touch Network 1. Use Network 2 to 5. Leave Network 1 alone. That way, it will not alter other channels when you subscribe.
I am able to watch the channels but on some channels, I’m not able to hear the sound. What can I do to activate the sound?
Hi, Benjamin! Some DStv decoders are not designed to decode AAC audio formats. It could also be a signal issue. Contact your installer for help as we cannot perform checks on that from here.
Hi, how can I setup my Openview Decoder (Model KSTB2184) (latest model) for Free-To-Air channels from IS20?
Hi, Leon! I can’t help you from here with that problem. Let’s connect our Facebook page so you can share images of your settings. Thank you.
Hello, some channels don’t have audio.
Hi, Shepherd. The DStv decoder doesn’t produce sounds for channels encoded with AAC. You’ll need a dedicated FTA to get sound on those channels.
Thanks l have found channels
My signal is 79% is it powerful enough
Yes, Talent. It’s good. Is this for signal strength or for quality? Most times it’s more about balance than having a strong quality but weak signal strength and vice versa.
Hello Robert, I have a DSTV Decorder Model 8s. I want to ask that does it support the settings you posted on this page? Since you said these settings only apply best to MPEG-4 HD Decorder.
I have done all the steps correctly but nothing is on. Some help, please!
Hi, Nayera. What kind of decoder are you using? Where are you located?
Hello, Mr Robert.
I have channels that are muted: Afriwood Blockbuster and more.
How do I fix that?
Hi
Pls help,
Will I be able to get FTA channels on a smart TV with built in scanner? As I currently get DTT channels by just connecting my aerial? Can I connect my satellite cable directly to TV to get fta
I have dstv explora model 2A is not scanning network 3 to 5 I don’t know which frequency i must use.
Hi am using Explora model3a my prophetic channel for Shepard bushiri does not show pictures or audio its just blank but got all others.
Hi, can I get codes to unlock star life
Star Life is not a Free-To-Air channel. You’ll need an active DStv subscription to view Star Life. The lowest you can go if you want to view Star Life is DStv Family.
I tried my and it didn’t work… Also, I proceeded in checking out this free station listed above, I found out that it’s only 499 that’s available for me.
Or does this have to do with me?
I have three DSTV in various houses I do pay for on monthly basis.
Hi, Polo. It’s a location problem. Please see the other article for you location.
Hi, Mr ROBERT. Is it possible to watch TV channels for free in South Africa? If possible how can I do it?
Hi, Dannie. Yes, you can. But know that you can only get FTA channels from your country. So the first thing is to decide on the channels you would like to get and then find out if they are available as FTA channels. If they are, then you can proceed to get the parameters and set up your decoder to receive them.
In situations where your dish is not positioned for the right satellite. You will need an installer to reposition it for you so you can receive channels from your country.
Thank you very much.i have all channels except limpopo, etv , sabcs and france 24
We are working on those.
Good day
Kindly assist, I would like to connect to Yadah Tv. Unfortunately, I have been trying the latest settings (12562,30000, H) to no avail. I am using the DSD 3U decoder on IS20.
Thank you
Hi, Morven! Are you getting any other FTA channels on this decoder?
Hi am I going to be able to view all this free channels without paying , or must I pay
Hi, Gift. You don’t have to pay for free channels. You can pay an installer to set them up for you but you don’t have to pay for the channel. They’re free.
All channels are expect for SABC 1 , 2, 3 AND ETV
Hi, Rosy! Thank you for the feedback. We are still looking for the right frequencies for those two. We will update the website and other Dish Portal channels when we have them.
Hi Ekemini, thanks for the response. I went to the local supplier to get a 6S decoder and they tell me the 6S has been replaced by the 8S decoder. Will this new model still be able to be reset to obtain the FTA channels? The DSTV installer says the new decoders have been changed to prevent and block getting the FTA channels. Is this true, and should I search somewhere else for someone who can still supply me with a 6S ?
I suggest you search for a 6S decoder. We are yet to have something on 8S decoders. When we do we will post it on this website and our Facebook page. Go for 6S if your major need is FTA channels.
Can you help, I want see healing Jesus tv
Hi, @Shingai! For which location, please?
Hi Sir Ekemini. I’ve just bought explore to upgrade. My problem I don’t know the settings for twin lnb. Five years ago multichoice send professional installer who really did job but after a week or so my signal was gone. I call another one which he was worse than that one. I bought signal finder even today I haven’t had problem about signal. Can you please help me how to set up single lnb to twin lnb is being two months I bought explore. Please Sir I’m based in South of Johannesburg
Hi, Kgeledi an installer to help you fix that.
Hi Ekemini, I have recently moved to Hermanus where there is no DTTV service and I have a smart Tv, so I wish to get myself DSTV Easy View and as many FTA programmes as possible. Will I be able to do this with a DSTV HD Single View Decoder 4138-6S?
Hi, George! Get an installer to set up your DStv for you and you’ll be fine. Even in Hermanus.
Hi, I’m using dstv explora model A3, on prophetic channel there is no audio and no pictures, is just shows blank, what is the problem?
Delvia, from which country please?
Hi, Sir, I have the same problem also. It’s Boitumelo
How are you connected? Are you using HDMI?
What are frequency for network number one
Network 1 is the default network for DStv. If you change it you will lose the normal channels you get on a DStv subscription.
Hello l did but my free channels some are not working lm using hd model s8 how can l solve it
Hi, Yvette! Check your signal strength and signal quality. Could explain what you mean by “some are not working?”
Hi Mr, how can I get the FTA football channels especially for UEFA, EPL, LEAGUE ONE etc? Help me plz
Hi Ekemini. I am trying to do an SMATV scan, but understand that the H channels have all been moved to V frequencies.
How do I find a list of these shifted frequencies, and then do the scan?
System is Multichoice in South Africa
Thank you
Hi, Tony! Which channel are you looking for? It can be hard to know all the channels that have changed polarization. The best thing to do would be to check for them individually. However, you may not need to do that for channels using the same frequency because all you would need to do would be to change the polarization from Horizontal to Vertical.
Hie I am using dsd 3u decoder wanted to ask if its MPEG 4 and how to go about the settings to access the the FTA
Hi, Cee. You’ll need to upgrade to a new 6 series decoder. However, I encourage you try the settings above just to see if it will work. Let me know how it goes.
I have tried it and nothing shows
Hi, am using IS20 on satellite, and my decoder HD model is 65
I’ve enter the frequencies and it counts but the channels are not appearing at all
Check signal quality and strength.
how do i get it done in my country…
what settings work here?
Hi, @Simon! What kind of satellite are you hooked up to? Is it IS20? Confirm that in your settings menu and let me know.
But simply following the instructions in the article above can give you the channels. But if you are not using IS20, let me know so I can send you new installation settings.
Greetings Ekemini Robert the channels were working just fine but now we can’t excess Ebira, Eagles tv and I think there’s more we can’t excess now, when trying to scan it gets quite on network 3,4,5, it doesn’t scan,, what can I do?
Hi, Thobeka Dube. What kind of decoder are you using? Has there been a software update? You can try undoing the settings; restart your decoder; then try to set them again from scratch.
Also, has there been a storm recently? Have you checked your signal strength, how good is it? Check your signal strength and be sure everything is fine.
Thank you Ekemini, I’m using dstv compact, there has been problems with the network but don’t really know about the network, the signal was affected. I will try again because till today I can’t access most channels. Thank you so much 🙂
It says “parameters are probable incorrect” error message
Hi, @Thobeka What’s your signal strength like? If everything is not good I recommend you get an installer to reposition the dish for you correctly. May cost a small fee but it’s worth it.
The signal strength is bad really, thank you I will try to get an installer
Which cords or parameters should I use in Z***, I’m using DStv 4U model
Hi, Joram! Are you using”is20″ satellite?
Go to Wizard Installation Settings, check the type of satellite you are using and let me know.
good Day
my free channels UBN and GNF Channels there is no pictures but a sound is there.
What kind of decoder are you using?
Hi, is this also working… coz I have try but is not working
Hi, Evarlyne! What kind of DStv decoder are you using?
Thanks it has worked. But NAC TV has no sound what can i do?
You’re welcome, Josphat. For NAC TV, go to Network 4 and set Modulation to DVB-S, then set Symbol Rate to 27,500.
Greetings sir, can the DStv dsd1110 (+2) work bcoz I have tried to get the FTA channels it’s not working out. Where I am missing?
Thanks it has worked very well
You’re welcome, Harvey. Have fun!
Hi, I’m using model 5S HD decoder, I have put all the channels and scan but it doesnt count at all.
As there is no way of telling what is wrong without inspecting your system, please get an installer to check that for you. As long as your decoder is properly setup, this will work.
Where do I apply the last setting you posted after network 5 settings
Hi, Enock! Those are optional settings that you can apply to any of the networks. If you don’t need them, just ignore and finish the settings.
It can work in my country?
Yes, Justin. As long as you have a DStv decoder with MPEG-4 capabilities, it will work.
Good morning. How do I check to know the type of dstv am using? All I see is model 65!!
Henry, that’s a 6 series HD decoder.
It does not scan – invalid parameters
Hi, David. Check your signal strength. Check your LNB too and ensure that it is properly position. Over time, most dish installations get adjusted by weather and other environmental conditions.
Hello sir can you please help me to activate free channels on my DStv HD please
Yeah, sure.
Hi brother My name is Nur, would like to know must all networks be first changed to watch or can I only alter One, regards
Hi, brother. You don’t need to alter all. You can alter just one network and proceed to search for the channels you want to see.
All the channels are working fine for me but one problem is the sounds for the radio stations can u help me out please!
Hi, Tunzi! I’d like to have two of the muted radio stations so I can help you further.
Thank you guys.Everything is well on my channels now except sound on Eagles tv, may you please help me.
Hi, Tinashe! That’s great. To get sound on Eagle TV, Change the settings on Network 4 to the ones below:
Frequency: 12682
Symbol Rate: 30000
FEC: 2/3
Note: These are for Network 4 only.
Enjoy!
I changed the settings but still there’s no sound
Okay, Tinashe I’m working on that. Send us a message on our Facebook page at Facebook.com/dishportal and I’ll let you know once we have a solution. For now, rescan with the new settings I gave you and check again for sound.
Mine is not catching signal at all of the frequencies.
You will need an installer to help you out with that. Because as long as your dish is correctly positioned and functioning properly everything should be fine.
How do I install Dinamis tv on the Public channel on the new cardless dstv Model 8S decoder
Hi, Abe! Use the following settings for Dunamis TV:
Frequency: 12682
Polarisation: Vertical
Modulation: DVB-S
Symbol Rate: 30000
FEC: 2/3
Hi, Kas-triezy! I’m glad you now have more free channels to enjoy.
For theuted channels, it would easier for me to assist you if you could mention a few of the muted TV channels. But I’m guessing they are either from Network 5 or 2, or both.
For example, there are two Frequencies and Symbol Rates for Network 5. Try to switch between the two, rescan and check if you have sound.
Amazing blessing.. Thank you soo much it worked but some channels not giving sound… Anything I can change to get sound???
Now if am using DSD 3u decoder can it work
Yeah. It will work if you can find your way around the settings.
Can the same be applied in bia
You can always give it a try, there’s a high probability that it will work in all other countries. And if it doesn’t, you can simply revert to default settings.
Am using 6S DStv decoder some channels have no sound please sir help me.
Hi, Chidi! If you have followed the steps, you’ll find that at a certain point you changed from “My DStv channels” to “All channels.” Simply go there and change it back to “My DStv channels.” You’ll also need to revert the — YES/NO — changes you made at Step 5 above.
Concerning Dunamis TV, you only have to check first with the settings above. But you may not have it in HD.
Most of the settings work well for the intelsat 20 satellite at 68.5 degrees East. Based on that, if the above configurations work but you can’t find Dunamis TV, I suggest you try the following changes on one of the networks:
Frequency: 12682;
Polarisation: Vertical;
Symbol rate: 30000;
FEC: 2/3
Mod: DVB-S
Please help, i’m not sure where to put the last step; “apply the following setting to get them”
Hi, O’Brian. At that point you are done already. Proceed to the last instructions and apply the the changes you’ve made. The settings you are talking about are optional changes you can make to Network 2 and 5.
I completed the steps and and I see all the channel but I cant watch them.i get this error code on every free channel I clicked “this decoder does not belong in this network”.is there anything to clear this error E106-9?
Hi, what kind of decoder are you using? These settings work best on MPEG-4 ready decoders. Old DStv decoders were using MPEG-2. Please come over to the Forum let’s talk. We don’t want to create excessively long threads here.
Hi, how do i know whether my DSTV is is20 or the other one?
Hi, Robin!
Go to Settings , Satellite Settings, Home Network, Launch Installation Wizard. Check the satellite there.
Hi may i have limpopo tv settings my decoder is not the new ones
Hi Mr,
I’m using an HD decoder but it’s refusing codes that I see.
Hi, Prince, this happens when you’re either in the wrong location or your installation is not up to the required standard. Also, if you’re using newer version of HD decoders it may also give you problems. What error message are you getting?
Good day Sir, please I would like to know if one activates the free to air channels on dstv, how do you revert to the paid channels i. e the ones that are not free. Also does this free to air channels have Dunamis tv on its list. Thanks
To return to your paid channels just press “OPTION” button scroll down then change from “ALL CHANNELS” To “MY DStv CHANNELS” .
Thank you so much it worked I have been struggling for so long much appreciate it for sharing God bless you mightily from Irene
It worked thank you very much
You’re welcome.
Hi I’m trying to install the free channels on my DStv HD recorder but it’s not going through properly,I don’t know at what signal strength percentage it should be coz mine signal strength is at 64% and signal quality is at 75% can you help me further from here.
Hillary, hi! It’s best if you can get your signal strength up to the 90% or more.
Please if I do the changes and I press SCAN THIS, nothing appears can i move to the next network?
I tried the steps as they are but I only got Daystar, Christ TV, amazing discovery and AMI TV. I’m trying to get Eagles tv, Ebira Unity, Press tv and Prophetic Channel
Please refer to the new article on free channels.
Hello, good afternoon. My question is: if u buy a new dish, how are you going to select the channel, please?
Hi, King J. Get an installer to set your dish for you properly. Then use the settings above to get FTA channels.
I think it is better to use a satellite finder.
Hi! Can SABC 1 to 3 play free? How? please help!
Can you share times television frequency and zodiak television
Let me have your location, please. Which country? This is needed to give you the correct parameters.
Times TV frequency is 11888; Polarization: Vertical; Modulation: DVB-S; Symbol rate: 30000;
FEC: 5/6.
Times TV frequency is 11888; Polarization: Vertical; Modulation: DVB-S; Symbol rate: 30000;
FEC: 5/6. Same as Times TV.
My decorder is not working its saying this network is not fr this decorder
What kind of decoder is it? When did you buy it?
How can I make it because our satellite is not is20 but E36B.
I will send the details to your email. Like Dish Portal on Facebook for updates.
Hey there
I have dstv pvr 2p. My signal strength is 95% however no fta channels show up on scanning.
Which country? What kind of error message are you getting?
Can I have the link to get free channel
You have it already. Check the article above.
Hi how can I add christ tv
Please see the new article on frequencies and symbol rate and you’ll find Christ TV there.
Why are other channels on mute ,eg those labeled premium free?
@Michael it is because the sound on those channels is encoded differently. That’s why they won’t play.
How’s it bro, please I need settings for Remit TV on DSTV.
Hi, bro. Here are Remite TV settings on Intelsat 20:
Frequency: 12682;
Polarisation: V;
Modulation: DVB-S;
Symbol Rate: 30000;
FEC: 2/3
Can the same steps be applicable to me?
No, Patrick. This is for IS20 Satellite. You need to read the article created for users connected to the E36B satellite.
Greetings sir, how can i set my DSTV HD to free channels….because the first network has been disturbed by someone who tried this setting before i come home help me please thank you
Hi, Paulo! Just follow the steps and fill the remaining networks with their respective parameters. Once you’re done, use the “Scan All” command to scan for free channels. Change the device from DStv Channels to All channels.
Hello dear, where do I apply the last changes where the perimeter symbol rate is 1600..which network is that?
Hi, Lindiwe. You don’t have to apply the last one if you’ve filled up Networks 2 to 5. So once you’re done with Networks 2 to 5, save changes and finish the process.
Hi I’m getting this message, “This decoder in not in this network” but faith TV is screening well.
Hi, Prince. I suggest you leave it there and enjoy the connected channels.
Can I add free-to-air channels on dstv?
Hi, Emmanuel. Yes, you can. However, based on your location. You’ll have to use the setting for Eutelsat.
Can you watch SABC and etv if your DStv is disconnected? If, do you have any frequencies I can use?
Yes, you can. I’ll update this comment once the setup information is ready.
Hi, can you please help me to activate free channels like sabc channels and etc?
Yeah, sure. I’ll update this comment when I put together the complete information for the setup.
Thanks very much.